Substitute natural gas pilot due in China

A Foster Wheeler AG subsidiary has signed cooperation agreements with Clariant International AG and Wison Engineering Ltd. covering construction in China of a pilot plant to demonstrate its substitute natural gas technology.

The technology, called VESTA, yields SNG from synthesis gas produced from coal or petroleum coke. It is based on a once-through operation with no recirculation and therefore avoids compressors. Its maximum operating temperature is 550º C., which Foster Wheeler says avoids metal-dusting formation and allows the use of relatively simple reactors.

Under the new agreements, Wison Engineering will provide engineering and construction services, Foster Wheeler will license the technology, and Clariant will supply the proprietary catalyst. Wison Engineering will operate the plant.

The location in China wasn’t disclosed. The plant is to be on stream this year.